The Bayraktar TB3 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), developed by Baykar, has successfully completed its 10th test flight with the PT-3 prototype. During this flight, the Medium Altitude System Identification and Performance Test was conducted, bringing the TB3’s total flight time to 909 hours.
Bayraktar TB3 stands out as the first Turkish UAV capable of takeoff and landing on naval platforms, thanks to its foldable wing design. Compared to the TB2 model, the TB3 features larger dimensions, higher speed, and enhanced capabilities. Equipped with a 170-horsepower turbo diesel engine, the aircraft can remain airborne for over 21 hours.
The UAV can reach a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet, with an operational ceiling of 20,000 feet. It has a cruising speed of 110-130 KTAS and is capable of autonomous takeoff, landing, and taxi operations. Designed for both land-based and naval operations, the TB3 is a versatile addition to Turkey’s UAV fleet.
The TB3 has a payload capacity of up to 280 kg, supporting laser-guided, INS/GPS-guided, infrared-guided, and air-to-air munitions. Additionally, it can be equipped with Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR/LD) systems, AESA radar, ELINT, and Sonobuoy payloads, making it well-suited for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Measuring 8.35 meters in length, 2.6 meters in height, and 14 meters in wingspan, the TB3 features a foldable wing structure, making it compatible with naval platforms. With a maximum takeoff weight of 1,600 kg, the UAV is designed to deliver high operational efficiency for both land and naval forces.
With the latest test flight, the TB3 has reached a significant milestone in its development process. In the coming period, the UAV is expected to begin takeoff and landing tests on aircraft carriers and other naval platforms.
| TB3 | Specs |
|---|---|
| Service Ceiling | 25,000 feet |
| Communication | LOS & BLOS |
| Operational Altitude | 20,000 feet |
| Endurance | 21+ hours |
| Power System | 170 hp Turbo Diesel Engine |
| Takeoff/Landing/Cruise/Taxi | Autonomous |
| Cruising – Maximum Speed | 110-130 KTAS |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 1,600 kg (May vary in naval variant) |
| Payload Capacity | 280 kg |
| Variants | Land & Naval |
| Payload – Munitions | 6 Laser-Guided, INS/GPS-Guided, IR-Guided, and Air-to-Air Munitions |
| Payload – ISR | Interchangeable EO/IR/LD, Multi-Purpose AESA Radar, ELINT, Sonobuoy |
| Length | 8.35 m |
| Height | 2.6 m |
| Wingspan | 14 m |
, developed by Baykar, has successfully completed its 10th test flight with the PT-3 prototype){kind=link}